The Deidrich Building in downtown Stayton was among the Oregon Main Street projects recognized as 2017 "Excellence in Downtown Revitalization" award winners Wednesday, Oct. 4.

"The award winners reflect some of the highest achievements in downtown revitalization efforts across the state." said Sheri Stuart, state coordinator of Oregon Main Street.

Building owners Linda Whitehead and Greg Olson received the award, which was specifically directed at “Best Facade over $7,500.”

Friends of Old Town Stayton Chairman Alan Meyer said the owners received a boost from a Preserving Oregon Grant to help restore the 1912 edifice, located at 195 N. Third Ave. A Friends of Old Town Stayton letter in support of the grant noted:

“The Deidrich Building, constructed in 1912, has played a significant role in Stayton’s history; housing Stayton’s very first car dealership as well as a five and ten cents store, a grocery store, and a men’s clothing store.”

Downtown Stayton's Deidrich Building before facade restoration.(Photo: Courtesy of Friends of Old Town Stayton)

The support letter, signed by Meyer and other group members, referred to the building as a “historic gem,” the preservation of which would “bring back to life an important cornerstone in Stayton’s history (and) give downtown Stayton a much needed boost that would certainly build momentum towards the goal of a beautiful and thriving downtown Stayton.”

Friends of Old Town Stayton was delighted with the results and the recognition.

“We are very excited that all of the hard work that Greg and Linda put into restoring the façade of the Deidrich Building was recognized at the Oregon Main Street Awards,” Alan Meyer said. “The Deidrich Building is one of Stayton’s most significant historic assets and is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

“This is a very big deal for Stayton and the building offers two commercial spaces that will be available in the fall of 2017 and apartments later down the road.”

jmuch@StatesmanJournal.com or cell 503-508-8157 or follow at twitter.com/justinmuch